Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (f/m/d)

Job Description

For our location in Freiburg in Breisgau, we are looking for a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (f/m/d)
In this role you will have the opportunity to contribute to the commercialization of groundbreaking technology.

At NexWafe, we are redefining how silicon wafers are manufactured. Our epitaxial wafer technology dramatically reduces process steps, energy consumption, and CO₂ footprint-setting a new benchmark for next-generation photovoltaics.

As a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (f/m/d) you will drive mechanical design, equipment development, and supplier collaboration for our epitaxial wafer manufacturing tools and related high‑temperature process equipment. You will be responsible for end‑to‑end mechanical concepts - from feasibility and calculations to 3D/2D design and commissioning - ensuring our equipment meets the highest standards of performance, reliability, and safety.
Join our global team, shape the future of renewable energy and discover your career opportunities at NexWafe.

Your Mission

Mechanical Design & Engineering

• Initiate, lead, and execute concept development, mechanical calculations, and 3D/2D designs, including detailed manufacturing drawings.
• Evaluate new lines, systems, and equipment concepts using engineering calculations and structured analyses.
• Apply material science expertise - especially for high‑temperature, caustic, furnace, or CVD environments - to select appropriate materials and influence design decisions.

Equipment Development & Commissioning

• Prepare, manage, and oversee testing, assembly, installation, and commissioning of new equipment.
• Ensure equipment meets performance targets, safety requirements, and operational reliability.
• Support the development of digital manufacturing documents and contribute to continuous design improvements.

Supplier & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Coordinate technical discussions with suppliers, external partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Provide proactive support to suppliers in equipment usage, troubleshooting, and technical clarification.
• Create, moderate, and manage technical specifications for parts, assemblies, and procurement packages.

Technical Leadership & Cross-Functional Support

• Lead design reviews and collaboratively refine concepts with process, materials, and engineering teams.
• Guide decision‑making through technical expertise, structured documentation, and clear communication.
• Contribute to efficient knowledge exchange and support cross‑functional project work.

Your profile

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, ideally with high‑temperature or vacuum equipment.
• Strong material science background, preferably related to graphite vacuum furnaces, CVD systems, or similar thermal process technologies.
• Experience with mechanical design of thermal systems, pressure vessels, or complex process equipment.
• Proficient in 3D/2D CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, or similar).
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with suppliers and cross‑functional teams.
• Fluent in English; German is a plus.
• Confident user of the MS Office suite.

Why us?

• A diverse team: Short decision-making processes, flat hierarchies and collaboration with experts from different areas await you.
• A diverse and exciting job: A company that contributes to the commercialisation of environmentally friendly solar energy with a low carbon footprint.
• Stability with a certain degree of flexibility: A permanent position with flexible working hours
• Attractive remuneration programme: An attractive salary, a company pension scheme and profit-sharing for employees.
• Healthy balance: Take your physical and mental health to the next level with an annual health budget and a HanseFit membership!
• Expand your language skills: Optimise your career prospects with the English and German courses offered.